Fraudsters in Rotherham drainage scam

POLICE in Rotherham are urging residents to be aware of fraudsters operating a drainage scam in the Maltby area.

South Yorkshire Police received three separate reports of a group of men approaching neighbouring properties in Salisbury Road, Maltby, on Tuiesday (July 12).

The men are reported to have asked for access to the properties to fix a problem with the drainage, which the residents have allowed.

It is understood the men dropped some form of tablet down the toilet before leaving the properties, with the residents’ contact information.

The residents were then contacted a short time later and the men are alleged to have asked for a substantial sum of money from each resident.

This money has not been paid and the residents have notified the authorities, including Action Fraud, who are investigating.

Sergeant Sharon Hulley from the Local Policing Team said: “We’re grateful to the members of our community who have already reported concerns about this suspicious activity and I’d urge any other residents in Maltby or the surrounding areas to be mindful of anyone making similar claims.

“If you haven’t made an appointment with a tradesperson or a utility company to visit your home, don’t feel embarrassed to ask for their identity cards or a number you can call to check who they are.

“Close and lock the door behind you while you call the company they claim to be from to confirm who they are. This might sound a bit excessive, but these steps could protect you and your property.

“I’d also ask you to be mindful of any suspicious activity around vulnerable or elderly residents’ houses and report any concerns to police.”

Anyone with information about the incidents is asked to call 101 or email enquiries@southyorks.pnn.police.uk quoting incident number 871 of 12 July 2016.

You can also report incidents of this nature to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040.